Live music can benefit us in so many ways. It can delight and inspire, calm and soothe, and create meaningful connections between ourselves and others. Its value is not based on mere speculation, however – there is science to prove it. In recent years, a growing body of evidence has been demonstrating the wellbeing benefits of live music.
Despite this, for charities that put on local events, budgets can be tight. So, to help ease the pressure, the Jeniffer and Jonathan Charitable Trust has been offering support.
The value of going local
The big music festivals and iconic venues will always attract music lovers. Closer to home, however, are the numerous small organisations putting on concerts for local communities. These smaller live music opportunities are just as important as those on the national stage. They are, of course, often more accessible. Shorter travel times and lower costs help to bring music to audiences who might not otherwise get to enjoy the benefits. These smaller events can also form part of the livelihoods of the many musicians around the country who offer their talents at a local level.
A question of funding
While the value of live music is clear, funding to support local performances can be hard to come by. With this in mind, the Jeniffer and Jonathan Charitable Trust has been making small but meaningful donations to a range of charities and organisations that support local music. These include the Berkhamsted Music Society, Bridgewater Sinfonia, Wendover Choral Society and Jewish Music Institute.
Supporting your community
While the Jeniffer and Jonathan Charitable Trust has donated to a number of charities so far, the ambition is to go even further. The Trust welcomes applications from interested parties.
Jonathan Harris comments: ‘I really do believe that bringing music into people’s lives is a game-changer. If you are a small music-orientated charity that is doing an excellent job in your community but are in need of extra financial support, then do get in touch. We’d like to help.’